Wood – Is it safe to use barn wood indoors for furniture, trim, walls and ceilings

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I am renovating a farm house built in the late 1800's. I am planning on tearing down the barn from the same era and using some of the wood to finish trim etc. I believe the moisture content is good 7 to 12%. I'm most concerned about bugs. The area is south-western Ontario.

Best Answer

Termites would be the most serious construction risk factor. There are businesses which specialize in the identification and treatment of termite infestation in most areas where termites are common. It would be prudent to consult with such a company if termites are a reasonable concern.

Otherwise, suitability comes down to a question of species and quality of the specific pieces on one side and the applications for which they are intended and the finishes desired on the other.